According to multiple reports in Italy, Spezia–Lazio referee and VAR Luca Pairetto and Luigi Nasca have been suspended until the end of the season following a late goal of Francesco Acerbi, who appeared to be in an offside position.
The Biancocelesti secured a key 4-3 win away at Spezia on Saturday thanks to a late winner of the Italy international. Acerbi seemed to be in an offside position, but a VAR review didn’t take place.
It sparked protests even from Roma boss José Mourinho who, the following day, criticised the referee’s decision which was favourable to their city rivals and direct competitors in the race for a Europa League spot.
Now, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport and ANSA, AIA – the Italian Association of referees – has decided to suspend both officials until the end of the season. Acerbi appeared to be offside and, even if he wasn’t, a VAR check should have taken place.
“Acerbi seems beyond Spezia’s last defender,” former Serie A referee Paolo Casarin told Radio Anch’Io lo Sport.
“I think that VAR should have checked before allowing the goal to stand.”